Leila McAlister's grocery shop and café off Arnold Circus, Shoreditch. You can find the best of everything, from jars of horseradish to eggs and croissants.

Great comic shop that stocks small press, and everything else you'd expect to find. The kids section starts at early ages and has something all the way up.

I've had a love affair with the BT Tower for some time now. Unfortunately entrance to the public was shut in 1980, but earlier this year I was invited up to the top, where the revolving restaurant once stood. The views were absolutely breath taking.

Since The Columbo Group took over The Jazz Cafe, it's become the best programmed venue in the city, focusing on jazz, soul, funk, disco and afrobeat.

Free natural ponds, open all year round (check online for varying opening hours according to seasons). Get an absolute get away feeling right in the heart of London, a treat if you enjoy swimming with ducks. Amazing park to enjoy a few games of cards and a walk around afterward too...